Initiative brings scientists and farmers together
An initiative by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to connect farmers with scientists is taking off judging by the response at recent regional field days.
More than 5,000 copies of Farmstrong's Getting Through book have been distributed around the country so far. With another 5,000 printed, Farmstrong is hitting some of the country's regional field days to distribute the resource even further.
Getting Through was officially launched in November and features the stories of more than 20 farmers, growers and industry leaders. Their stories were captured following the cyclones and floods of 2023 and the book discusses what it takes to get through severe weather events.
The book, and its accompanying website, includes a toolkit of mental skills and daily habits designed to help people manage workload, stress and pressure.
Farmstrong programme director Gerard Vaughan says the uptake of the book had been very encouraging and demonstrated how much the rural community valued the wisdom and experience of other farmers and growers.
"These resources are full of practical, actionable advice about what works and what doesn't when you're facing a longhaul recovery. That's why we're keen to get as many people across them as possible," says Vaughan.
"It is a new year, but with that comes the unknown. Getting Through is a tool for not just farmers and growers, but anyone facing uncertainty or tough times.
"I really encourage anyone visiting any of the field days or shows this year to come and find us on the Farmstrong stand. We are always up for a chat and we will have free copies of the book available for you to take home and read in your own time".
Apart from the Central District field days next month, Farmstrong will also be at the Northland Field Days this week and the Wanaka A&P Show in March and the South Island Agricultural Field Days in Kirwee next month.
Farmstrong would also be setting up alongside FMG at the Mystery Creek Fieldays in June where the rural wellbeing programme would acknowledge its 10th birthday.
Free copies of the book can also be requested via emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Getting Through was made possible with the support of Ministry for Primary Industries, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora and Rural Support Trust.
For more information, visit: https://gettingthrough.farmstrong.co.nz/
